1978 MC5 250

[davemcmanus]

I need to replace the connecting rod in my 1978 MC5 250. I bought a new one from Al Beuhner.I have turned wrenches my entire life and have access to a press, but have never done one. Is there any trick to it?

Thanks

[SouthRider]

KTM cranks are VERY tight, and should not be fooled with unless you have the right supporting blocks, alignment jig, a large press, and specific experience with them.

In the70's we had an experienced machine shop (Shreve Automotive) across the street from the dealership. They built top fuel dragsters, funny cars, and did work for just about every auto racer in New Orleans. They also raced Pentons & Huskies.

They hated fooling with a KTM crank (they did Husky cranks everyday).

They are so tight that if you don't get them aligned on the first try you can just about forget truing one without taking it back apart. The wheels just won't budge once together.

Do yourself a favor & call Jerry Birkie at Penton Racing Products - he has the old alignment jigs from Penton back in the day.

Some things are worth paying for.....

_____________________________________________________________________________________

"We the willing, led by the unknowing, are doing the impossible, for the ungrateful. We have done so much, for so long, with so little, that we are now qualified to do almost anything, with nothing."

1972 Penton Berkshire 100
1983 Husqvarna 250 XC
2011 Jayco 31.5 RLDS
2009 Chevy 2500 HD Duramax

[davemcmanus]

Thanks for the reply. I'll give him a call.